How can we ensure our lives bear fruit to avoid judgment like in Ezekiel? The warning in Ezekiel 15 “Thus I will make the land desolate, because they have acted unfaithfully,’ declares the Lord GOD.” (Ezekiel 15:8) • Israel, pictured as a useless vine, faced fire because it produced no fruit. • The same principle carries into the New Testament: branches without fruit are cut off and burned (John 15:6). God’s expectation of fruitful lives • John 15:8 — “In this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and prove to be My disciples.” • Colossians 1:10 — “bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.” • Matthew 3:8 — “Produce fruit, then, in keeping with repentance.” Fruitfulness is not optional; it is evidence of genuine faith and obedience. Rooted in Christ, the true vine • John 15:5 — “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” To remain (abide) in Christ: ‣ Daily engage His Word (Psalm 1:2–3). ‣ Maintain constant, dependent prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17). ‣ Obey what He commands (John 15:10). Walking by the Spirit • Galatians 5:22–23 lists the Spirit’s fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. • Romans 8:13 — “If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” A Spirit-directed life replaces sinful habits with godly character, producing fruit that endures. Practices that nurture fruitfulness • Repent quickly whenever sin is exposed (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9). • Keep close fellowship with other believers who stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Steward gifts and resources in service (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10). • Share the gospel; spiritual reproduction is fruit (Romans 1:13). • Persevere through trials, trusting God to refine faith (James 1:2–4). Signs of healthy branches • Increasing conformity to Christ’s character (2 Corinthians 3:18). • Good works done in humility and truth (Matthew 5:16). • A growing hunger for Scripture and holiness (1 Peter 2:2). • Lasting impact on others toward God (Philippians 1:11). Assurance for the faithful • Psalm 1:3 — “He is like a tree planted by streams of water… whatever he does prospers.” • John 15:7 — “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” • Luke 13:8–9 shows God’s patience; yet fruit must come. Stay attached to the Vine, yield to the Spirit, practice obedience, and fruit will follow—sparing you the fire of judgment and bringing glory to the Father. |
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